What to do and see in Rotorua, North Island: The Best Multi-day Tours

April 20, 2022 Rebbecca Marino

Bubbling mineral springs and pools promise maximum relaxation in Rotorua, on New Zealand's North Island. Therapeutic hot mud pools, dramatic geysers and a buried village are within easy reach of the city. What happens in the bubbling mud geysers of "Rotovegas"—the area at the top of Fenton Street—stays in Rotovegas. Once you've made the most of the mud, soar nearly 2,000 feet on the Skyline Gondola for views of Lake Rotorua, then zip back down to explore the lake by paddle steamer, fishing charter or WWII amphibious vehicle.
Restaurants in Rotorua

1. Private 2 Day Tour: Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua Geothermal & Hamilton Gardens

Auckland & Beyond Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

This two day trip covers the most iconic attractions in New Zealand! Ideal for travelers with limited time or as a pre or post cruise ship trip. Do not miss out on this amazing 2 day fully customized luxury adventure! • Pick Up & Drop off at anywhere in Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua or Tauranga. • Luxury Mercedes Vehicle • Professional, friendly & knowledgeable tour guide • Admission & Guided Tour Inside Waitomo Glowworm Cave including a Boat Ride. • Admission to Te Puia Geothermal Valley in Rotorua. • 1 Night Accommodation in Rotorua. • Hobbiton Movie Set Admission & Guided Tour. • Complimentary Drink (Alcoholic or Non) at Green Dragon Inn inside Hobbiton Village. • 90min River Cruise at The Hamilton Gardens.

Inclusions: Overnight accommodation., GST (Goods and Services Tax), Bottled water, Snacks, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup, Hotel drop-off

Exclusions: Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By AdiS491

The tour of the set was excellent. The place is a well oiled machine from ticket office to bus ride etc. Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable about the movies and all other aspects . The movie set was awesome and the gardens amazing . Even if you’re not a movie buff the experience and sheer brilliance of PJ et al is totally worth it . Having a drink ( free) at the Green Dragon ???? was fantastic.

2. Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua & Taupo 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland

Cheeky Kiwi Travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Rotorua, Huka Falls & Taupo! This is all of the most popular North Island attractions in an epic two day tour. Highlights: • Hobbiton Movie Set • Waitomo Glowworm Caves • Rotorua Highlights & Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland • Taupo Highlights & Huka Falls While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. This tour doesn't rush you, with time and options to add extra activities if you choose. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Entry tickets - stated activities only, Bottled Water, Snacks, Optional extra - One-way option from Auckland to Taupo

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Optional extras and activities - please select the tour option you want at time of booking

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

3. Auckland to Waitomo Caves, Hobbiton & Rotorua 2-Day Private Tour

Victoria St West opp Sky Tower, Auckland 1010, New Zealand TIME Unlimited Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Pass through the beautiful NZ countryside on your way to see the world-famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, then experience what the unique town of Rotorua has to offer from thermal hot mud pools, geysers and our Maori cultural centre of New Zealand. Choose to incorporate Hobbiton Movie Set into your tour. Experience all of this in two wonderful days on a private tour in a Mercedes luxury vehicle just for you. Pick-up in Auckland and drop-off in Auckland or Rotorua.

Inclusions: Fully guided Private Tour in Mercedes luxury vehicle., Pick-up/drop-off in Auckland incl airport/cruise terminal., Tour times flexible to work in with your requirements., Complimentary snacks & water., All guide expenses (e.g. guide accommodation & meals)., All tours support local eco-cultural initiatives.

Exclusions: Entry fees., Guest accommodation and meals., Anything not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

Reviewed By AylaS171

I had the best experience with Time Unlimited Tours, they were so prompt with their service. I had a group of 70 people getting transported from one venue to another. It was absolutely hassle free and my guests were very impressed! They were on time, so kind and helpful. Neill and Ceillhe are the loviest people and I just can't recommend their service enough!! 10/10 across the board. I would use this company again, ANY day of the week!

4. Ultimate New Zealand - Hiking New Zealand - 23 Days

Auckland 1010, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

The Ultimate North is the ideal choice for those who have a little less time but want to experience the very best that the North Island, New Zealand, can offer. Hike into a river-side hut in the middle of Jurassic-like rainforest. Explore thermal areas in Rotorua. Trek the high sections of the remote Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk deep in the magical rain forests of Te Urewera. Relax in lodges in beautiful locations. Discover the surreal volcanic wonderland of Tongariro National Park, staying high above the world in an alpine hut. The Ultimate North has short hikes, as well as two overnight hikes staying in backcountry huts.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner

Exclusions: Personal Hiking Equipment

Reviewed By Discover820406

I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more

5. Amazing New Zealand Itineraries & chauffeur-driven tours

Amazing New Zealand
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 21 reviews

Our tours are personalised to suit your interests and time available, choose from 1 day to 21 days ! You can self-drive or have your own chauffeur-guide. Please contact us with your requirements.

Inclusions: Private transportation, All Fees and Taxes

Exclusions: Own meals or optional extras

Reviewed By Charlie S

We are just finishing a two tour of NZ. Amazing NZ helped us design our itinerary, made recommendations on things to see, booked our accommodations and car, and reserved various tours for us. We have had a great time. Good on ya, Amazing NZ!

6. Kakapo 21 Day New Zealand Small Group Tour

Grand Mercure Auckland, 8 Customs Street East, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand MoaTrek
Excellent
98%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 41 reviews

Small Groups - Maximum 18 travellers per tour. NZ Family Owned since 1971 - Many NZ tour companies are Australian owned. Off the Beaten Track Destinations - where big coaches can't go. Flexibility - Time to add as many (or few) activities around the country as you like. Walking - For those who would like to, there are lots of short walks all over the country, your guides will help you find them. Kiwi Guides - Our guides are all passionate Kiwis who know the country like the back of their hands.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Private transportation, 20 Included Activities as per itinerary

Exclusions: Flights from your home country to New Zealand, Single Accommodation Supplement for Sole Room Use.

Reviewed By Wander636823

Kudos to Moa Tours for organising such a great trip. Te Wai Poumanu is beautiful in April with all the autumn colours. This was my first trip with Moa and I have already booked a second one. Special mention must be made of our guide Andrew. His knowledge, passion and enthusiasm shone throughout and he has a great sense of humour, much appreciated when dealing with so many diverse customers. He always went the extra mile to make everyone’s journey enjoyable. I would highly recommend both Moa and Andrew for kiwis wanting to experience the beauty of their own country.

7. 2-Day Hobbiton, Rotorua, Waitomo Caves Tour from Auckland with Accommodation

FlexiToursNZ
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.7 based on 18 reviews

We pick up all customers using several vehicles. You will not be driven around the city from hotel to hotel for hours before we leave Auckland Join this 2-day tour for the chance to visit the Hobbiton Move Set, Rotorua and Waitomo Caves! Experience a wide range of unique activities, local culture and geothermal activity. Admission fees, accommodation, and most meals included. Please note that because of the amount of travel time this tour is not suitable for children under 2 years as part of the group - It can be booked as a private group  - please ask TripAdvisor/Viator to contact us for the  custom price. This tour is specifically designed for Trip Advisor/ Viator clients and includes a cultural dinner, Hobbiton, Thermal activity and sightseeing plus 4 star accommodation. We are able to customise the programme to suit individual needs so if you want something slightly different please contact us through Viator and tell us what you are looking for. No minimum numbers needed

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch and dinner on day 1, breakfast on day 2, Guaranteed departure - We do not cancel on the rare occasions we have for low numbers., All admission fees and entrance fees for activities

Exclusions: Free Hotel pickup from non central locations shuttles can be arranged for a small fee , Non-listed activities or optional extras, Please note that because of the amount of travel time this tour is not suitable for children under 2 years, as part of the group - It can be booked as a private group tour - please ask TripAdvisor/Viator to contact us for the custom price

Reviewed By anthonystewarth

A brilliant trip from the guides to the actual locations which were stunning in everyway. Everything was done with ease and the guides were just wonderful with their knowledge of the various locations. Driving was safe and enjoyable. I couldn't recommend more. Well done Flexi

8. Ultimate North - Hiking New Zealand - 8 days

Auckland 1010, New Zealand Hiking New Zealand
Excellent
67%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.7 based on 3 reviews

The Ultimate North is the ideal choice for those who have a little less time but want to experience the very best that the North Island, New Zealand, can offer. Hike into a river-side hut in the middle of Jurassic-like rainforest. Explore thermal areas in Rotorua. Trek the high sections of the remote Lake Waikaremoana Great Walk deep in the magical rain forests of Te Urewera. Relax in lodges in beautiful locations. Discover the surreal volcanic wonderland of Tongariro National Park, staying high above the world in an alpine hut. The Ultimate North has short hikes, as well as two overnight hikes staying in backcountry huts.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Lunch

Exclusions: Personal Hiking Equipment

Reviewed By Discover820406

I completed a four-day hike in Arthurs Pass with Hiking NZ. Not having a lot of hiking experience I was apprehensive about what to expect. However, the trip exceeded expectations, the scenery was stunning, the days although long were rewarding and our guide let us take our time. Couldn't recommend more

9. Private Tour: 8-Day North Island Tour from Auckland Including Rotorua and Wellington

The Road Trip New Zealand
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 4 reviews

Venture from Auckland to the North Island on this private 8-day tour that takes you by private, luxury vehicle to Coromandel, Whitianga, Rotorua, Tongariro National Park and Wellington. Take guided sightseeing tours, discover natural hot springs, witness amazing geothermal activity, enjoy scenic nature walks through kauri tree forests, and admire views of majestic volcanoes and beautiful beaches, with plenty of free time to explore more on your own. Your private guide will teach you about Maori culture, as well as the history, geography and wildlife of New Zealand. You’ll experience North Island’s highlights as well as hidden gems not seen on normal coach tours. The service that we provide is a private luxury tour service, not a large group tour. Other than our friendly tour staff you will not be sharing your tour with anyone outside of your own party so you can rest assured that this is your tour and we’ll do exactly what you want to make it your perfect trip.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Private tour, Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner), Live commentary on board, Professional tour guide (who is also the driver) , Transport by private vehicle including fuel , Hotel pickup and drop-off, Sightseeing tours of Auckland and Wellington, 7 nights accommodation in your selected category of hotel

Exclusions: Gratuities, Optional activities, Personal expenses, Food and drinks, not specified in the itinerary (lunch and dinner)

Reviewed By Pipnruss

Fiordland Lodge and Doubtful Sound. Fantastic ferry ride across Lake Manapouri and bus ride over the Wilmot Pass to board the Fiordland Navigator for 2 nights. 3 sunny, calm days to relax on board, spoiled by the chef's lovely food and Courtney's very knowledgeable commentary about the Sounds, history, wildlife, birdlife and little things like having complete silence in the Sound to enjoy the peace and look at the amazing mountains and their reflections in the calm water. An unexpected run out into the Tasman Sea was a bonus. The Fiordland Lodge is an American style Lodge built with lots of logs and wood and stone, very spacious. Friendly helpful staff. Located 6km from Te Anau. Our only concern was the lack of food choice for dinner, on a 3 course meal was offered, no light meals. The breakfast (included) was lovely, as was all the food, some interesting variations in tastes.

10. Hobbiton, Waitomo, Rotorua & Taupo 2-Day Small Group Tour from Auckland

SkyCity Hotel Auckland, 72 Victoria Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand Cheeky Kiwi Travel
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2 reviews

Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Rotorua, Huka Falls & Taupo! This is all of the most popular North Island attractions in an epic two day tour. Highlights: • Hobbiton Movie Set • Waitomo Glowworm Caves • Rotorua Highlights & Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Wonderland • Taupo Highlights & Huka Falls While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it’s our small groups, guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember. This tour gives you the time and options to add extra activities if you choose and is led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Inclusions: Small Group & Fully Guided Tour, Entry Tickets - stated activities only, Accommodation, Bottled Water, Snacks

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Food and drinks, unless specified, Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By M6828DUlisao

We enjoyed this tour from start to finish. It was a fantastic day out. Our tour guide Mani was amazing. He had such a wealth of knowledge and was so friendly and involved in our whole experience. I would have to say he has been the best tour guide we have ever had. The highlight of the day was our visit to Cathedral Cove ( such a breathtaking place) and Hot Water Beach. A very different experience for us

TAGS

Share on FacebookTweet about this on TwitterShare on LinkedInPin on PinterestShare on Google+Email this to someoneShare on VkontakteBookmark

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.